3/28/2011, Colorado Springs, Air Force Academy

Today we took a road trip an hour south of us to check out Colorado Springs.

First stop,

 The Chapel

 It started snowing right as the classes were getting out

Entrance to the Chapel

Looking in toward the front

 up

 looking back toward the entrance, large organ in the balcony

 

 looking out the sides

 

 

 The Chapel was a very beautiful, peaceful place. 

 Small hike to overlook the Academy

3/27/2011, Downtown Denver

After church on Sunday, we took a look at downtown Denver.

First up - Invesco Field where the Bronco's play

  Avery and the Bronco

the kids with Grandma

Next stop, the Capitol building

 Looking west from the steps

 This step is at exactly one mile high

 

3/26/2011, Evergreen

Evergreen Lake

The weather was pretty crummy, but we decided to check out the town of Evergreen about 20 minutes into the mountains from our house.

We enjoyed a wonderful lunch at the Aspen Grill overlooking the lake.

We then explored some trails around the lake and enjoyed the peaceful scenery.

We have heard the ice skating here is nice in the winter.

3/24/2011, Avery's birthday surprise

Our wonderful friends in Michigan surprised Avery with a package for her birthday.  It was filled with things she loves, from the friends we all love.  She was feeling down because she has not made many friends here yet.  This REALLY brightened her day!  Thank you so much!! 

3/24/2011, Avery turns 5!

Five years ago today, God gave us Avery.

She brings great joy to our family.

We love you Aves!

 Good morning birthday girl!

 All dressed up with fancy sparkles and ready for her day.

 First stop, American Girl Doll store

 

Avery picked out Kahnani to be her new doll.

 Yummy!  We were all glad Avery picked this for her lunch!

 Grandpa and Grandma

 

 Avery actually doesn't like cheesecake, 

so the waiter brought her a sundae instead!

 Avery loved her ice cream cake and even let Ethan

help blow out some candles!